A youth was arrested by Azamgarh police for posting a video on social media falsely claiming that the UP Police constable recruitment examination paper was leaked at a centre in Azamgarh district. The video also suggested that aspirants were rioting at the venue.
According to Superintendent of Police Anil Kumar, the cyber cell detected the post during routine monitoring of social media for rumours and misinformation related to the UP Police Constable Recruitment Examination-2026. The video claimed that the question paper had been leaked, causing candidates to protest at a centre in Azamgarh.
Upon examination, police found that the video was actually shot on April 17 in Noida and had no connection with any examination centre in Azamgarh or elsewhere in the state. Technical analysis and digital tracing led to the identification of the Instagram user as Ashutosh Kumar Maurya (21), a resident of Gaurinarayanpur under Bilariyaganj police station.
Cyber crime cell and kotwali police personnel arrested Maurya and registered a case under Section 353(2) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (circulating false information) and Section 66D of the Information Technology Act. During interrogation, Maurya admitted that he posted the video to gain more views and popularity on social media.
SP Kumar warned that those spreading fake and misleading content on social media related to examinations and public order are under constant surveillance by the cyber cell. He urged the public to verify information before sharing and to report any suspicious content to the authorities.
Background of the Case
The UP Police Constable Recruitment Examination-2026 is a high-stakes exam attracting lakhs of candidates. Rumours and fake news can cause panic and disrupt the examination process. The cyber cell has been actively monitoring social media platforms to curb misinformation.
Legal Action and Deterrence
The arrest of Maurya serves as a deterrent to others who might attempt to spread false information for social media fame. The police have emphasized that such actions will not be tolerated and will lead to strict legal consequences.
This incident highlights the importance of responsible social media usage and the role of law enforcement in maintaining public order during sensitive events like recruitment examinations.
